I-131 Radioactive Iodine Therapy for Cats with Hyperthyroidism in Baton Rouge
The Gold Standard for Feline Hyperthyroidism Treatment
Hyperthyroidism is one of the most common diseases of older cats. If left untreated, it can cause weight loss, heart disease, high blood pressure, and serious organ damage. At Cat Care Center of Baton Rouge, we are proud to offer I-131 radioactive iodine therapy - the only curative treatment for feline hyperthyroidism.
Instead of lifelong medication, prescription diets, or invasive surgery, a single pill of I-131 often restores normal thyroid function and gives cats many more happy, healthy years.
What Is I-131 Therapy?
I-131 (radioactive iodine) is absorbed directly into the thyroid gland and destroys only the abnormal tissue that causes hyperthyroidism. Normal thyroid tissue and the rest of the body are unharmed.
- It's just one pill! (administered orally, no anesthesia required)
- 95%+ cure rate with a single treatment
- No more daily pills, transdermal gels, prescription diets
- Permanent resolution in most cats
Who Is Eligible for I-131?
Your cat may be a candidate if they have:
- A confirmed diagnosis of hyperthyroidism
- Recent lab work and diagnostics from your veterinarian
- Overall health stable enough for treatment
Cats with advanced kidney disease, heart disease, or other complex conditions may need additional evaluation before treatment. Our team will guide you through every step.
What to Expect: The Treatment Process
Step 1: Referral & Consultation
- Schedule an appointment with us by calling 225-228-1039
- Or, if your cat has another primary veterinarian, have them sends us your cat’s medical records.
- Our doctors review everything to confirm eligibility.
- We will contact you directly to schedule the therapy.
Step 2: The Treatment
- You admit your cat on their scheduled day.
- A small, single pill is administered orally.
- No anesthesia or surgery required!
Step 3: Hospital Stay
- Cats stay in our feline-only radioactive iodine ward for usually around 4-5 days, until their radiation levels are safe for discharge.
- Our cat-friendly team provides daily care, enrichment, and comfort.
- You will have access to 24/7 live webcams to check in on your cat anytime during their stay!
Step 4: Discharge & Home Care
You’ll receive clear, simple instructions for a short at-home “quarantine” period, including safe litter disposal while your cat's radiation levels deplete fully.
Step 5: Follow-Up
- Your primary veterinarian will recheck thyroid levels about a month after treatment.
- We provide a detailed treatment summary and remain available for ongoing support.
Why Choose Cat Care Center for I-131 Treatment in Baton Rouge?
- Exclusively feline - a calm, dog-free hospital designed just for cats
- Advanced medicine - our veterinarians are leaders in feline-only care
- Collaborative approach - we partner closely with your regular vet
- Compassionate team - treating every cat like family
- Convenient access - the only feline-only I-131 treatment facility in Baton Rouge
Frequently Asked Questions
Is I-131 safe?
Yes! It has been used for decades with an outstanding safety record for humans, too! Side effects are rare and usually mild.
Is this a cure?
Yes, for most cats. Over 95% are cured with one pill!
How long will my cat stay in the hospital?
Typically 4-5 days. This protects you and your family while radiation naturally decreases to safe levels.
Do I need to give my cat medication after I-131?
No, most cats no longer need thyroid medicine. Occasionally, a simple thyroid supplement is needed if the thyroid is reduced too much.
How much does I-131 cost?
While the upfront cost is higher than medications, it is often less expensive in the long run compared to years of pills, diets, or repeated blood tests. Plus, it’s curative! Give us a call at 225-228-1039 to have a customized, transparent price estimate tailored to your cat.
For Referring Veterinarians
We deeply value the trust our veterinary colleagues place in us. Our goal is to make the referral process seamless for you and supportive for your clients.
How to Refer a Patient
Please send:
- CBC, chemistry panel, urinalysis
- Total T4 (and free T4 if available)
- Blood pressure measurement
- Thoracic radiographs and ECG/echocardiogram if cardiac disease is suspected
- Any relevant recent history or concerns
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 225-228-1039
What Happens After Referral
- We contact the client directly to schedule treatment.
- We provide full client education, including home care instructions.
- After treatment, we return patients to your care.
- Follow-up lab work is performed at your clinic (or ours if desired), we will provide a recommended schedule.
Your clients will remain under your primary care after I-131. Our role is to provide this specialized service while supporting your bond with your patient families.
Ready to Begin?
- Cat Owners: Call 225-228-1039 to see if your cat is a candidate for curative I-131 therapy!
- Veterinarians: Call or email us! Give your patients access to the gold standard treatment for feline hyperthyroidism.